Manage intellectual property and legal protection risk:How to protect your intellectual property abroad

Start by understanding what IP exists within your business

Document it, and think about what this represents to your business.

Make sure you're not infringing on someone else’s IP in your chosen market

Carry out a trademark search through the relevant intellectual offices of the market, to see if a similar trademark to your brand already exists. The search can be carried out online through government websites.

Check if you can register the IP in your chosen market

Remember, IP protection is territorial in a given country. In most countries, the ‘first to file’ system exists, so act early before someone else does. Getting IP rights varies from country to country. Your patent, trademark or design may not qualify for protection in all the markets you're interested in.

Decide whether you need a professional trade attorney

Your chances of getting a patent will increase if you use an attorney, as specialists skills are needed. Look at the commercial value to your business alongside the costs of getting a patent, as part of your decision-making process.

Sometimes, you can register trademarks and designs yourself, but attorneys can help too, particularly in certain markets. Seek professional advice before you act.

Register your IP online

Trademarks and designs can be registered online through government IP office websites.

Copyright is free of charge, and is automatically protected in most countries. But in some countries, registering copyright in-market can provide better in-market protection.